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Speak, Write, and Connect with Confidence in English

The Intensive English Program is designed for international students who want to strengthen their academic English skills and build confidence in speaking, writing, and networking. It’s ideal for those preparing to study in the U.S. or engage in academic and professional environments where strong English communication and cultural understanding are essential.

This program will help you build fluency, improve your academic writing, and deepen your cultural understanding to communicate confidently in English.

1. Increase Confidence in Using English

  • Develop your ability to use English more confidently, clearly, and naturally in everyday and academic settings.

2. Improve Academic Engish Skills

  • Improve your English, focusing on the skills needed to succeed in academic contexts like essays, presentations, reading, and research papers.

3. Connect Globally with International Students using English

  • Build meaningful relationships and cultural understanding by communicating effectively with peers on campus and from around the world in English.

At the program’s start, you’ll take an English Placement Exam to assess your current level, ensuring that you are placed in classes with students at a similar proficiency.

[cal] Program Dates

Program Dates:
June 29 - July 31, 2026

The 2026 application will open in mid-January 2026.

Intensive English Courses

Core classes meet Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 12:15 pm. 

Academic Reading and Writing

Engage with thought-provoking topics through reading, discussion, and writing in a collaborative, international environment.

  • Explore Dynamic Issues: Read, discuss, and write about current, compelling topics that spark intellectual curiosity.
  • Collaborate on Projects: Work with peers from around the world on meaningful projects that deepen cultural understanding.
  • Discover U.S. Cultures: Gain insights into various aspects of American culture, enhancing your global perspective.
  • Build Critical Skills: Develop essential reading comprehension, analytical, and critical writing skills.
  • Enhance Revision Technique: Improve your revising and editing skills for clearer, more effective writing.
  • Study Literature in Depth: Analyze literature and practice writing critically about themes, characters, and ideas.

This course equips you with the critical thinking and communication skills needed for academic and professional success.

Academic Speaking and Listening

Strengthen your ability to communicate effectively in academic settings through engaging discussions, presentations, and interactive activities.

  • Master Academic Discussions: Actively participate in discussions, building confidence in expressing complex ideas and viewpoints.
  • Enhance Listening Skills: Expand your knowledge by analyzing academic presentations and videos.
  • Deliver Compelling Presentations: Conduct oral presentations on topics of interest, honing your ability to inform and engage an audience.

This course is designed to boost your confidence and fluency, preparing you for success in any academic or professional setting.

Focus Area Classes

Our focus classes are designed to be interactive, student-centered, and participatory, providing an exciting way to improve your English language skills while exploring unique aspects of American culture.

Sample Focus Classes from Summer 2025

  • Pronunciation: Refine your American English pronunciation for clearer, more natural speech.
  • Society Today: Explore contemporary American society through discussions on key cultural, political, and social topics.
  • Video Production Workshop: Gain hands-on experience in video production while improving your communication and storytelling skills.
  • Sports in the USA: Discover the role of sports in American culture and society, from college athletics to professional leagues.

These focus classes offer a dynamic and immersive learning experience, enriching your English proficiency while deepening your understanding of American culture.

Intensive English Daily Schedule*

ClassDaysTimes
Academic Reading and WritingM–F9:00 am - 10:45 am
Academic Listening and SpeakingM–F11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Focus Class 1M/W1:45 pm - 3:15 pm
Focus Class 2T/TH1:45 pm - 3:15 pm

*Individual schedules may vary. This is for reference only.

Tuition and Fees

ItemAmount
Tuition - Intensive English Program$5,325
Application Fee (nonrefundable)$80
Visa Processing Fee$125
Medical insurance fee for 5 weeks$140

For other fees and residential costs, please visit our Tuition and Fees page. All tuition and fees, including room and meal charges, must be paid in full three weeks before the program start date..

Financial Assistance

Yale Summer Session only offers financial assistance to Yale College students. Financial assistance is not available for visiting students at this time. Visiting students should contact the financial aid office at their home institutions to discuss their options for financial assistance.

Application Information

To apply, review the application requirements for international students and fill out the Yale Summer Session application. The English Language Institute programs are offered under Yale Summer Session B course listings. Proof of English proficiency is not required for this program.

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